Royal visit to ‘show strength’ of Irish relationship with UK
PRINCE Charles and his Camilla the Duchess of Cornwall will drop in on President Michael D Higgins today as part of their four-day official visit to Ireland.
Against the backdrop of Brexit, a statement by Clarence House said that as on the two previous official visits by the royal couple, it would “showcase the strength and vitality of the connections between the United Kingdom and Ireland, and the friendship and partnership that has defined our relationship over recent years”.
“The prince and duchess’s programme will allow them to honour those men and women whose sacrifice in times of conflict shaped our two countries’ shared history; and to celebrate all that we do together to cement peace and secure a prosperous future,” the statement added.
On arrival in Dublin, the couple will be received by President Higgins and Sabina Higgins at Áras an Uachtaráin.
Other highlights will include an engagement at Kilkenny Castle tomorrow, where they will see some traditional music and observe a game of hurling.
Gardaí have advised that people will be facilitated to view the visit in Kilkenny but large bags will not be permitted in certain areas.
Prince Charles will tour the UN Training School Ireland at the Curragh Camp, while Camilla will visit the Irish National Stud.
Commemorate
The couple will attend Glasnevin Cemetery to commemorate those who died in World War I and during the Easter Rising.
Prince Charles will meet Taoiseach Enda Kenny and the couple will conclude their visit by attending a reception at the British Ambassador’s residence.
At the home of Seamus Heaney in Bellaghy, Co Derry, yesterday, Prince Charles referred to the North’s troubled past, describing Heaney as a poet who saw “difference as opportunities for understanding and exchange” and how in his home place he learned “what it is to belong and with grace and generosity extended that belonging to the world”.
The royal couple are fast becoming an annual fixture, having visited this country each May for three years in a row.